What constitutes head contact? What penalty will be assessed when head contact is called? Find out that and more with Hockey Canada’s definition of the new rule that will take effect immediately at the start of 2011-12.

Hockey Canada is determined to reduce concussions in Hockey. RESPECT, rules, rule enforcement, education, awareness and skill development are all key steps to reducing concussions. Players and adults involved in the game all have a role.

Check out videos that will help you learn the basics of body on contact in hockey. These drills and videos are designed to assist coaches in teaching the proper checking progressions. Videos | Drills

Checking – The 4-Step Progression

Introduction

The NCCP checking model is based on the principle that checking should be taught in four logical steps. Each step builds upon the previous step and brings the hockey player that much closer to being able to give and receive body checks competently and confidently. › More

Step 1 – Positioning & Angling

Angling can be considered the first line of defense for a player. Body and stick positions are important in checking without making contact. This section will examine angling as one technique of checking (Step 1) without making contact. › More

Step 2 – Stick Checks

Stick checking may be considered the second line of defense as angling forces the opposition to a position where contact can be made with the stick. › More

Step 3 – Contact Confidence (Body Contact)

Body contact is the third step in the progression and is used to gain separation, when a player positions his/her body between the puck and the puck carrier. › More

Step 4 – Body Checking

Body checking is the final step in the 4 step checking progression. A body check can be defined as body contact primarily caused by the movement of the checker. The checker uses their body for the purpose of stopping the attacking progress of the puck carrier and/or to separate the carrier from the puck. › More